It’s OK to Ask for Help

If you’re struggling or need to talk to someone, you’re not alone.
Support is available, and reaching out is a strength — not a weakness.

Our Safeguarding Commitment

The Shieldwall Brotherhood is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all members, volunteers, and participants. We aim to provide a safe, respectful environment where people feel supported, listened to, and valued.

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility.

What We Mean by Safeguarding

Safeguarding means protecting people from harm, including abuse, neglect, exploitation, harassment, and unsafe situations — and responding appropriately when someone may be at risk.

Our Boundaries

The Shieldwall Brotherhood provides peer support.

We are not a:

  • Medical service

  • Counselling service

  • Crisis service

  • Emergency service

If you need urgent or specialist support, please use the services below.

If You or Someone Else Is in Immediate Danger

  • Call 999 immediately

  • If possible, go to your nearest A&E

Urgent Mental Health Support (UK)

  • Samaritans (24/7): 116 123

  • NHS 111 — ask for mental health support

  • If you are under the care of a local crisis team, use the number you have been given

Reporting a Safeguarding Concern

If you are worried about your own safety or someone else’s safety, please contact our safeguarding team.

Concerns will be taken seriously and handled sensitively.

Online Safety

Our online spaces (including Discord and social media) are moderated to help keep everyone safe.

We do not allow:

  • Bullying, harassment, hate speech, or discrimination

  • Encouraging self-harm, violence, or criminal behaviour

  • Pressure to share personal trauma

  • Inappropriate contact or exploitation

If you see something concerning, please report it to a moderator or the safeguarding contact.

Data and Confidentiality

Safeguarding information is handled sensitively, stored securely, and only accessed by authorised people.
Information is only shared when necessary to protect someone from harm.

Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support

Need Help Now?

24/7 Crisis Support Numbers

If you or someone you know needs help right now:

  • Emergency: Call 999 or go to A&E

  • Under 18s: Alder Hey Crisis Care — 0808 196 3550

  • Over 18s: Mersey Care Crisis Line — 0800 145 6570

  • More local support: ReachOutLiverpool.co.uk

Know the Warning Signs

Everyone’s situation is different, but some common signs someone may be struggling include:

Things happening in their life

  • Relationship or family breakdown

  • Financial or job problems

  • Addiction or mental health struggles

  • Past self-harm or suicide attempts

  • Domestic issues or long-term illness

  • Sleeping too much or too little

How they may feel or behave

  • Becoming quiet or withdrawn

  • Losing interest in usual activities

  • Acting angry, irritable, or confused

  • Giving away personal items or saying goodbye

  • Talking about being a burden

  • Searching about suicide online

  • Seeming unusually calm after a difficult period

Things they might say

  • “I can’t do this anymore.”

  • “Everyone would be better off without me.”

  • “I hate myself.”

  • “I just want it all to stop.”

If you notice these signs, trust your instinct.

What You Can Do

You don’t have to fix everything — just start the conversation.

  • “Are you okay?”

  • “I’ve noticed you’ve not been yourself.”

  • “I’m here for you.”

A simple conversation could save a life.